society
The Role of Nigeria Custom in Food Smuggling, How to Tackle the Menace
The Role of Nigeria Custom in Food Smuggling, How to Tackle the Menace
The Nationals Bureau of statistics, NBS said Nigeria’s annual inflation rate rose to 29.90 per cent in January 2024 from 28.92 per cent in December 2023.
Of utmost concern to Nigerians is food inflation and according to the report, food inflation rate in January 2024 quickened to 35.41 per cent on a year-on-year basis, which was 11.10 per cent points higher compared to the rate recorded in January 2023 (24.32 per cent).
In 2024 especially, food prices have been on the rise across Nigeria. The situation became more complex as some security agencies are fingered to be responsible for some loopholes that are responsible for the shortages.
Truckloads of grain and other items are reportedly being smuggled out of Nigeria to neighbouring countries through clandestine routes across states even as citizens battle the double whammy of hoarding and soaring food inflation.
Saddled with the responsibility of taking care of what goes in and out of our borders, The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) is expected to regulate the importation and exportation of goods, including food items, into and out of Nigeria.
The Nigerian Customs Service, according to many Nigerians, is not delivering on its key responsibilities as this is having a big toll on the prices of food in the country. The rise in the prices of food items has prompted the federal government to declare a state of emergency on food security in the country.
The minister of information, Mohammed Idris, noted that the government has decided to open the National Food Reserves as part of the measures to crash food prices.
What then can be employed by the federal government to crash the prices of food and also give breathing space to locally made food items?
The effectiveness of Nigeria Customs in controlling smuggling can influence the prices of locally produced and imported food. The level of these duties can influence the overall cost of imported food products, affecting their retail prices.
Changes in trade policies, including adjustments in tariffs or bans on certain imports, can impact the availability and prices of food items. Customs regulations are often aligned with broader trade policies set by the government
It’s important to note that the relationship between the Nigerian Customs and the price of food is complex and influenced by various domestic and international factors. Changes in customs policies, trade agreements, and economic conditions can impact the overall food market in Nigeria. Additionally, factors such as agricultural practices, local production, and distribution networks also play a crucial role in determining food prices in the country.
Corruption within government agencies, including the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), is a serious concern that can have significant economic and social implications. Tasked with investigating and prosecuting financial crimes, including corruption, The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) can also play a vital role in monitoring the activities of the Nigeria Custom Services.
The Nigerian Customs Service NCS has faced challenges relating to corruption such as bribery, smuggling, mismanagement of funds, and other forms of financial malfeasance.
EFCC has the authority to investigate allegations of corruption within the NCS. When evidence of corrupt practices is found, the EFCC can initiate legal proceedings against individuals involved.
The EFCC employs various strategies to combat corruption, including intelligence gathering, collaboration with other agencies, and public awareness campaigns. The aim is to prevent corruption, investigate cases thoroughly, and prosecute offenders
EFCC also engages in preventive measures to reduce opportunities for corruption. This includes advising government agencies on best practices, promoting transparency, and encouraging the adoption of anti-corruption policies.
EFCC operates within the legal framework provided by Nigerian laws. Legislative support is crucial for the effectiveness of the EFCC in tackling corruption in the Nigerian Customs Service NCS.
Addressing corruption in NCS and other agencies is a multifaceted challenge that requires sustained efforts, institutional reforms, and public support. Both preventive measures and legal actions, as undertaken by the EFCC, play a role in combating corruption within government agencies like the NCS. Regular reviews of anti-corruption strategies, strengthening institutional capacities, and fostering a culture of transparency contribute to long-term success in the fight against corruption.
Though the Nigeria Customs Service has a policy that said that passengers passing through any Nigeria international airports can only be allowed to go through with goods or items with only N50,000 or less current market value, but some overzealous officers had made mockery of the policy with the way and manner the policy is been executed at the airport.
It’s important to note that customs inspections are a standard procedure at international borders and airports, and they are carried out to safeguard national interests and public welfare. While it may be inconvenient for travelers, these inspections are essential for maintaining the integrity of a country’s customs and immigration processes. Travelers are typically expected to cooperate with customs officials and provide accurate information to facilitate a smooth and lawful entry into
society
UKA Gears Up for Final ATC Exchangeability Test Run as June Preparations Begin
UKA Gears Up for Final ATC Exchangeability Test Run as June Preparations Begin.
May 30, 2026 – As the month of June gathers momentum, the *United Kingdom of Atlantis, UKA*, a sovereign nation has unveiled a series of vital guidelines and preparatory packages to ensure citizens and stakeholders run the *ATC Exchangeability* process effectively.
In an official update, the *President of Atlantic Crown Limited, Empress of Attica Empire UKA*, confirmed that the *Final Test Run of ATC Exchangeability* is scheduled for the month of June 2026. The exercise marks a key phase ahead of the *Official Exchangeability Window, set to run from July 2026 to February 2027*.
### Key Highlights from the Presidential Briefing
1. *Final Test Run – June 2026*
The test run is designed to validate systems, procedures, and user readiness before full activation. Citizens, partners, and designated participants are urged to follow all official advisories released by UKA authorities during this period.
2. *Official Exchangeability Period*
Following the successful completion of the June test run, the Official Exchangeability will commence in july 2026 and we are Expecting Full Exchange ability between July Ending, 2026 to February 2026.
UKA stated that detailed schedules, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step instructions will be communicated progressively through verified UKA channels.
3. *Benefiting Packages for June*
In line with UKA’s commitment to citizen empowerment, the month of June will feature “benefiting packages” aimed at education, preparation, and seamless onboarding. These packages are intended to equip the people of UKA with the knowledge and tools needed for effective participation.
4. *Commitment to Transparency*
Addressing the nation, the Empress of Attica Empire UKA emphasized:
_“Final Test Run of ATC Comes up in The Month of June, As We Prepare For The Official Exchangeability, Between July 2026 To Feb 2027. All Information Will Be Communicated.”_
UKA reaffirmed that only information released through official UKA platforms should be regarded as authoritative.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis is encouraging all citizens, representatives, and interested parties to remain alert to official communications, attend designated orientation sessions, and avoid unofficial sources. UKA’s dedication to order, clarity, and the collective benefit of its people as the nation moves into this significant phase.
For updates, advisories, and participation guidelines, citizens are advised to monitor official UKA communication channels.
United Kingdom of Atlantis, UKA, is a sovereign nation, committed to national development, citizen welfare, and structured economic participation through initiatives such as ATC Exchangeability.
society
Three Years On, General Buratai Hails Tinubu’s Economic, Security Achievements
Three Years On, General Buratai Hails Tinubu’s Economic, Security Achievements
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold economic reforms and improved security efforts as the President marks three years in office.
In a goodwill message on Thursday to commemorate Tinubu’s third anniversary as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Buratai said the administration had taken courageous decisions that would leave a lasting impact on Nigeria’s development.
According to him, President Tinubu broke a long-standing cycle that had hindered national growth by removing fuel subsidy and implementing foreign exchange reforms aimed at stabilising the naira and strengthening the economy.
He noted that the reforms were beginning to yield positive results, citing the global acceptance of Nigerian debit cards, the gradual revival of local refineries, access to student loans, and ongoing road and infrastructure projects across the country.
“The FCT Administration has also recorded remarkable progress, completing major road projects that remained unfinished for over 16 years,” Buratai stated.
The former army chief also praised the administration’s security efforts, saying renewed military offensives against insurgents, terrorists and bandits had led to notable successes across various parts of the country.
He specifically lauded recent joint operations involving Nigerian and United States forces against Boko Haram and ISWAP in the North-East, as well as intensified counter-banditry operations in the North-West.
“We have seen notorious ISWAP commanders being neutralised. I congratulate the Commander-in-Chief, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police and heads of intelligence agencies for their efforts,” he said.
Buratai, however, acknowledged that challenges remained, stressing the need for more aggressive military operations and intelligence-driven strategies in the coming year.
While urging Nigerians to remain hopeful, he said celebrating the President’s achievements did not amount to ignoring the difficulties facing the nation.
“Because you truly care, you have shown the courage to trade short-term comfort for long-term hope. Nigerians need your reassurances, and that is why we remain optimistic and full of confidence,” he added.
The retired military officer reaffirmed his support for the Tinubu administration and expressed confidence that the foundation being laid by the government would deliver a brighter future for the country.
He also prayed for God’s guidance, wisdom, strength and good health for the President as he continues to lead Nigeria.
society
NUT Raises Alarm Over Continued Captivity of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers
NUT Raises Alarm Over Continued Captivity of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers
The Nigeria Union of Teachers has expressed deep concern over the continued captivity of pupils and teachers abducted during an attack on schools in the Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Oyo State wing of the union described the situation as increasingly distressing, particularly following the emergence of a video allegedly released by the abductors showing the victims pleading for their freedom.
The union said the footage had heightened fears over the welfare of the abducted pupils and teachers, describing their ordeal as heartbreaking and unacceptable.
According to the NUT, no child or teacher deserves to be subjected to such traumatic experiences, adding that the prolonged captivity of the victims has continued to inflict psychological pain on their families, colleagues and the wider education community.
The union called on the Federal Government, Oyo State Government and relevant security agencies to intensify efforts towards securing the immediate and safe release of the victims.
“This is not a moment for hesitation. It is a moment for coordinated, intelligence-driven efforts to ensure the immediate and safe release of all abducted pupils and teachers,” the statement read.
While acknowledging ongoing interventions by security agencies and government authorities, the union stressed that time was of the essence, warning that every additional day in captivity deepens the trauma suffered by the victims.
The NUT urged security operatives to strengthen surveillance, improve community intelligence gathering and deploy all necessary operational and diplomatic measures to facilitate the rescue of the abductees.
It also appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders and residents to support rescue efforts by providing credible information that could assist security agencies.
“The safety of our children and teachers must remain a collective priority,” the union stated.
Reaffirming its support for the families of the victims, the NUT pledged continued solidarity and prayers while advocating safer learning environments across the country.
The statement was jointly signed by the Chairman of the Oyo State NUT, Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the Secretary, Comrade Salami Olukayode.
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